Device and method for detecting and treating chemical and biological agents

Abstract

A device and method capable of sensing the presence of biochem agents, and preferably also capable of delivering precise amounts of one or more antidotes to treat a victim exposed to the agents. The device includes a freestanding tube portion having an internal passage containing a substance selective to a chemical or biological agent so that matter accumulates within the freestanding tube portion when a fluid drawn through the tube portion contains the agent. When vibrated at resonance, the resonant frequency of the tube portion is indicative of the accumulation of matter and thereby the presence of the agent to which the substance is selective. The device then preferably delivers precise amounts of one or more appropriate antidotes to treat the victim. The device is a sufficiently small and lightweight unit to permit being carried by an individual.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 473,383, filed May 27, 2003.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention generally relates to fluid handling devices, their uses and operation. More particularly, this invention relates to a fluid handling device and method for sensing chemical and biological agents and preferably also treating a person exposed to such agents.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]The threat of biological and chemical (biochem) attack from terrorists and rogue states has increased in recent years. Biochem threats particularly put military personnel, law enforcement, emergency response, first responders, and postal workers at risk. While not all biochem agents have antidotes, a significant percentage does. For example, antidotes and treatments exist for sarin, VX, tabun, soman, cyanide, lewisite (β-chlorovinyldichloroarsine), anthrax, bruce...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a device and method for detecting and treating chemical or biological agents. The device includes a freestanding tube with an internal passage containing a substance selective to the agent, which accumulates within the tube. The device also has means for vibrating the tube at its resonant frequency, sensing movement of the tube, and identifying the agent based on the accumulation of matter. The invention also includes a delivery device that is small and lightweight, containing one or more antidotes for treating the detected agent. The detecting and delivery devices make use of a micromachined resonating tube that senses the mass of the fluid flowing through it. The invention provides a portable rapid-response unit for individuals against chemical and biological attack, capable of detecting the type and amount of agent present and delivering appropriate amounts of antidote(s) to the victim."

Problems solved by technology

The threat of biological and chemical (biochem) attack from terrorists and rogue states has increased in recent years.

Biochem threats particularly put military personnel, law enforcement, emergency response, first responders, and postal workers at risk.

Making treatment available in the field and in time to be effectively used is desirable but difficult.

Treatment on a remote battlefield, especially when fast-acting chemical agents are involved, can be particularly difficult since many affected personnel may be incapacitated.

Commercial or military products or systems do not exist that can provide immediate and effective defense against an actual biochem attack.

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